LIFE empowers its scholars to connect with Lebanon through environmental engagement
Falougha, Mount Lebanon – 26 April 2025: As part of its commitment to shaping responsible, engaged future leaders, LIFE—the global network of Lebanese professionals in the diaspora—mobilised university students, supported by its education program, for an environmental field day in Falougha, taking part in a unique initiative blending nature exploration with civic engagement.
In partnership with the Lebanon Mountain Trail Association (LMTA) and Live Love Recycle, the students hiked, collected waste, and participated in an expert-led discussion on sustainability and biodiversity. The activity forms part of LIFE Academy, which complements academic achievement with leadership training, civic responsibility, and values-based growth. It encourages students to connect with their country, act together, and reflect on the role they can play in shaping its future.
The day began with a short hike, followed by the cleanup of hunting cartridge waste and plastic bottles scattered across the trails. In just a few hours, students collected more than 50 bags, which were transferred to Live Love Recycle for sorting and recycling. An expert-led talk on bird conservation followed, focusing on Lebanon’s environmental challenges, and their repercussions on bird species, which are threatened by hunting practices and litter. The discussion highlighted the impact that collective action can have on preserving nature.
The event reflects LIFE’s increasing focus on environmental responsibility as a component of education. LIFE’s holistic approach supports students not only through tuition funding, mentorship, and career development, but also by encouraging a lifelong commitment to service and purpose.
“This experience left a lasting impact on me, both as a citizen and a young advocate for Lebanon’s nature. It was a powerful reminder that real change starts by preventing the harm, not only cleaning it up,” said Ahmad Al Ghour, a LIFE Scholar. “Being part of LIFE means having a chance to give back to our land and our community”.
The Lebanon Mountain Trail Association also emphasized the link between environmental action and national responsibility. “Preserving Lebanon’s nature starts with awareness—and awareness begins with reconnecting to the land,” said Julie Lebnan, Program Administrator at LMTA. “Walking these trails, cleaning them, and understanding their significance helps Lebanese youth develop a deeper sense of duty to protect their environment.”
Over the past 15 years, LIFE has raised more than USD 16.5 million to fund the education of Lebanese students in Lebanon and abroad. To date, it has supported over 1,100 students, equipping them with the knowledge, mentorship, and opportunities to grow as leaders and contribute to Lebanon’s long-term development.
By integrating education with civic and environmental engagement, LIFE empowers students to build meaningful careers while shaping a more hopeful, sustainable future for Lebanon.
About LIFE
LIFE is a global membership organization that unites more than 1600 Lebanese professionals in the finance, consulting, law, and technology sectors worldwide. Founded in 2009 to bring together diaspora professionals dedicated to empowering the Lebanese community, the network maintains unwavering standards of governance, adhering to a non-partisan, non-sectarian, and independent approach to integrity.
With a diverse presence across 20 chapters worldwide, LIFE operates as an expansive network offering support to Lebanese professionals globally, extending from America to Asia. Leveraging the unity and collective action of its members, LIFE seeks to uplift and empower the Lebanese community on a global scale, while also advocating for economic and social reform within the country.